Not to be deterred by Honda’s U3-X, Murata Manufacturing’s unicycling robot, Murata Seiko-chan (Murata Girl) has received some upgrades since its debut in 2008, and they’re keen to show off their hard work. They gave a preview of what they’ll be showing at this year’s CEATEC JAPAN 2009 (beginning early October) that included a traveling speed of 15cm/sec (three times faster than the original model), a smaller turning ratio, and the ability to navigate a thin balance beam only 2cm (3/4″) wide.

The robot has been given additional gyro sensors to aid its balancing act, a front-mounted camera to detect the balance beam, and distance sensors. More than 6 months and several million yen have been invested in the robot, which is expected to boost sales in Murata’s electronics components due to its undeniable PR value. Videos after the break.

Its ability to ride a unicycle on a tiny balance beam isn’t impressive enough for you? :D It was designed as a PR tool, so it does not need any other functionality than what it was designed to do. It is a companion to Murata Boy, a robot that can ride a bicycle and maintain balance even when it’s stationary.